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The Philosophy of Art: An Introduction

ISBN: 978-0-745-64915-3

December 2011

Polity

284 pages

Description

The Philosophy of Art is a highly accessible introduction to current key issues and debates in aesthetics and philosophy of art. Chapters on standard topics are balanced by topics of interest to today's students, including creativity, authenticity, cultural appropriation, and the distinction between popular and fine art. Other topics include emotive expression, pictorial representation, definitional strategies, and artistic value. Presupposing no prior knowledge of philosophy, Theodore Gracyk draws on three decades of teaching experience to provide a balanced and engaging overview, clear explanations, and many thought-provoking examples.

All chapters have a strong focus on current debates in the field, yet historical figures are not neglected. Major current theories are set beside key ideas from Plato, Aristotle, Kant, Marx, and Hegel. Chapters conclude with advice on further readings, and there are recommendations of films that will serve as a basis for further reflection and discussion. Key ideas are immediately accompanied by exercises that will test students' reactions and understanding. Many chapters call attention to ideology, prejudices, and common clichés that interfere with clear thinking.

Beautifully written and thoroughly comprehensive, The Philosophy of Art is the ideal resource for anyone who wants to explore recent developments in philosophical thinking about the arts. It is also provides the perfect starting point for anyone who wants to reflect on, and challenge, their own assumptions about the nature and value of art.

About the Author
Theodore Gracyk is department chair and professor of philosophy at Minnesota State University.
Features
  • A highly accessible, comprehensive introduction to the key themes and debates in aesthetics and the philosophy of art.
  • Theodore Gracyk draws on over three decades of teaching experience to provide an engaging, example-led text, including plenty of exercises, which will be ideal for a student readership.
  • Provides a firm grounding in classic debates surrounding concepts such as expression, representation and value, covering key philosophers from Plato and Aristotle onwards.
  • Emphasises the very latest philosophical thinking on topics of interest to today's students, including cultural appropriation and the distinction between high and popular culture.